08 Jun Why Is the Bottom of Your Foot Itching?

Bottom of Your Foot Itching?

Is your foot itching uncontrollably? Pruritis is the medical term for an irritating itch. It can occur anywhere on your body, but it’s more likely to happen to your feet. That’s because your feet are frequently exposed to moisture, irritants and dry skin from conditions like calluses.

Illnesses

Certain chronic illnesses can lead to uncomfortable skin sensations. Many people with diabetes have dry, itchy feet.

Kidney disease, liver disease, thyroid gland disease and cancer can all lead to itchiness. In most cases, these conditions cause an uptick in serotonin levels, which can lead to skin irritation. If you have one of these underlying diseases, talk to your doctor about medications that inhibit serotonin uptake.

Bugs and Bites

Insect bites can often lead to itching and irritation. Spiders, mosquitoes, fleas and sand fleas can cause bumps and itching. A bug bite usually has a round, red bump. If you have a similar bump on your foot, it could be a bite.

You could also suffer from pest infestations, including scabies, bed bugs or body lice. Talk to your doctor about treatments for lice and scabies.

Irritants

Exposure to irritants is a frequent cause of pruritis. Using harsh chemicals, detergents and household cleaners can leave your hands and feet raw and irritated. Even if you’ve never had sensitivity before, you can develop allergic reactions to certain toxins.

Even natural products can cause problems. Menthol, peppermint, eucalyptus and tea tree oil are all examples of natural irritants. Some people are allergic to lavender and chamomile. Stop using these products to see if your symptoms stop.

Fungus Among Us

Fungal infections like athlete’s foot and fungal toenail are frequent causes of pruritis. These conditions can cause intense, uncontrollable itching on the foot and between the toes. Your podiatrist is the best person to contact about these conditions. New medications can heal athlete’s foot in just a few days. Fungal nail treatments are also available.

Skin Conditions

Allergic contact dermatitis is the term for itching caused by a skin irritant. If you have exposed your skin to a toxin, your skin may respond by turning red and itchy. The best course of treatment is to avoid using the toxic substance and try an over-the-counter cortisone treatment.

Psoriasis an autoimmune condition that causes scaling, redness and irritation. You can develop scales on your hands, feet or scalp. Psoriasis is often a side effect of other illnesses, including psoriatic arthritis, type 2 diabetes and heart disease.

Eczema is another skin condition that causes itchy, dry skin. Also known as atopic dermatitis, it often appears on the hands, face or feet.

If you have a skin condition, talk to your doctor about topical and oral treatments for your condition.

When To See a Doctor

If your home remedies don’t work, contact a doctor. A podiatrist can take a skin scraping and run blood tests to determine what’s causing the problem. Modern treatments will make quick work of your itching and get your feet back to normal.

Contact Us

If you need help with any foot condition, contact Shuman Podiatry & Sports Medicine. We offer the latest diagnostic and treatment techniques in a warm, family-friendly setting. We are proud to be Loudoun County’s premier podiatry clinic.